A full roof replacement strips the existing roofing down to the deck (or in some cases overlays it, if code and condition allow), repairs or replaces damaged sheathing, installs new underlayment and flashing, and lays down new shingles, metal panels, or tile. New construction installation follows the same steps without the tear-off. Either way, it's one of the largest single expenses a Stamford homeowner takes on, and it needs to hold up against Connecticut's freeze-thaw winters, ice damming, and the wind and rain that come off Long Island Sound.
Stamford has 18 companies working in this category, ranging from small crews that focus on asphalt shingle replacements to larger outfits that also handle metal, slate, and flat/low-slope roofing common on the city's older homes and additions. Not all of them are a good fit for every job, and price alone won't tell you which.
Before hiring, look for a written estimate that spells out the tear-off scope, decking repair costs (often billed separately per sheet), underlayment and ice-and-water-shield brand, flashing details around chimneys and valleys, cleanup and disposal, and the manufacturer warranty being registered on your behalf. Ask for proof of Connecticut licensing and insurance, and check whether the crew is a certified installer for the shingle or metal brand they're proposing, since that usually extends the warranty coverage.
We score Stamford roofers on factors like verified licensing, warranty terms, responsiveness, and how consistently past customers describe accurate estimates and clean job sites. See the ranked guide to Stamford roofing contractors for the full breakdown, and read our methodology for how we build these scores.